Shot NY firefighters make progress, speak out

Associated Press

WEBSTER, N.Y. — The upstate New York firefighters wounded by a gunman as they responded to a blaze are on the mend and thankful for the outpouring of support.

Joseph Hofstetter and Theodore Scardino said in a statement released by Strong Memorial Hospital that they are "humbled and overwhelmed."

This undated image provided by the West Webster fire department shows firefighter Tomasz Kaczowka. Kaczowka, 19, was killed when William Spengler, 62, armed himself with a revolver, a shotgun and a semiautomatic rifle before he set his house on fire to lure first responders into a death trap before dawn Monday. (AP Image)

Police say William Spengler Jr. set his house ablaze Monday and then opened fire on responders, killing two. Spengler then killed himself. Seven houses burned down.

Hofstetter was hit in the pelvis and Scardino was hit in the shoulder and knee. Surgeon Nicole Stassen says they're doing well and were being upgraded to satisfactory condition Wednesday.

The firefighters ask that acts of kindness be directed to others, including those who lost homes in the blaze.

Copyright 2012 Associated Press